Ten-year-old Breetaliza Amanda, a student at Kisumu Junior and Senior School received recognition from the CECM for Sports, Hon. Beatrice Odongo, during a courtesy call earlier today following her recent national victory.
Amanda was crowned the champion in the Kenya Youth and Cadets National Chess Championship, an achievement that has earned her the prestigious honor of representing Kenya at the upcoming World Cadet Chess Championship in Kazakhstan.
The young champion, accompanied by the school’s Head Teacher Prabhulla Prabhu and fellow chess-playing students, presented her national trophy to Madam Odongo in her office.
“We are immensely proud as a school for producing a national young champion,” stated Head Teacher Prabhulla Prabhu, attributing the success to hard work, dedication, and vision.
Amanda is a key member of the Victoria Chess Club, where she is mentored by Andrew Owili, the Vice President of Chess Kenya. Mr. Owili commended her consistency, dedication, and hard work as the driving forces behind her win. She was also accompanied by her school’s Chess Patron and Head of Games, Mr. Derick.
In her remarks the CECM congratulated Amanda, recognizing her as a shining example of talent in Kisumu County.
“I thank the Head Teacher for recognizing the County government under the leadership of H.E. Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o,” Madam Odongo said. She pledged to involve partners to provide chess boards to support the students’ development sport, acknowledging the essential support provided by the student’s teachers, parents and coach.
The CEC also emphasized the county’s philosophy in integrating sports into education to provide an extensive benefit, including improved academic performance, enhanced mental and physical health, and the development of crucial life skills like teamwork, discipline, and confidence.
In attendance was the County Director for Sports and Amanda’s Mother, who also witnessed the recognition.